The narrator describes their struggles with alcoholism and addiction, hiding bottles in various places, promising to make changes, but always finding themselves in crisis. They reflect on wanting to die alone with their memories and sympathy beside them, wanting to rid themselves of the demons and people who led them down a dark path.

Meaning of "Table for One" by Liz Phair

The lyrics of "Table for One" delve into the deep struggles of alcoholism, addiction, and the desire to escape the demons that haunt the narrator. The repeated motif of wanting to die alone is a reflection of the loneliness and isolation that often accompanies substance abuse. The narrator's constant battle with their own demons, as well as the individuals who enabled or took advantage of their vulnerability, is a poignant exploration of the pain and humiliation that comes with addiction. Despite the narrator's desire to make changes and the presence of some loving spirit watching over them, it seems as though the cycle of crisis, relapse, and regret continues unabated. The song captures the internal turmoil and desperation of someone caught in the grip of addiction, yearning for escape and redemption but struggling to find a way out.